Meeting explored ways to further utilize Microsoft’s expertise in tech and AI to support the UAE and Abu Dhabi’s ambitions in clean energy transition
His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, recently met with Brad Smith, vice chair and president of Microsoft.
The meeting at the Abu Dhabi Energy Center discussed ways to capitalize on opportunities for strategic partnerships between companies, institutions, and entities working in the AI, energy, and climate sectors, held on the sidelines of the ENACT Majlis, which brings together over 80 leaders from the global energy, technology, and investment sectors.
Fostering UAE’s AI ecosystem growth
Sheikh Khaled’s meeting with Smith also highlighted the ongoing strategic cooperation between ADNOC, Masdar, G42, and Microsoft. This partnership aims to leverage advanced AI technologies and solutions to meet the requirements of rapid global developments, drive change in the global energy sector, and employ low-carbon energy solutions to power the essential infrastructure supporting the AI ecosystem.
The meeting also discussed ways to further utilize Microsoft’s expertise in advanced technology and AI to support the UAE and Abu Dhabi’s ambitions in clean energy transition and fostering the growth of the AI ecosystem across various sectors and key industries.
During the meeting, Sheikh Khaled and Smith also explored the strategic collaboration between Microsoft, ADNOC and Masdar, which aims to identify ways to power Microsoft’s data centers with renewable energy.
This collaboration aligns with global efforts towards sustainability and carbon reduction, reflecting the commitment of the three entities to advancing clean energy sources. Moreover, it contributes to the UAE and Abu Dhabi’s leadership in green technology and sustainable energy solutions.
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Abu Dhabi’s booming business landscape
Sheikh Khaled’s meeting with Smith also highlighted the advantages that the UAE and Abu Dhabi provide, including an integrated business infrastructure, advanced legislative frameworks, and competitive incentives for businesses and investors, positioning both the country and emirate as leading destinations for the growth of international companies across various sectors.
The meeting followed the release of a joint report by ADNOC, Masdar and Microsoft on October 31 titled ‘Powering Possible: AI and Energy for a Sustainable Future’. The report explores AI’s role in optimizing energy efficiency, managing complex systems, reducing emissions, and supporting a net-zero future while addressing the growing energy demands of AI technology.
In attendance were H.E. Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and ADNOC managing director and group CEO; H.E. Mansoor Ibrahim Al Mansoori, chairman of the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi; and H.E. Saif Saeed Ghobash, secretary general of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council.
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